It seemed inevitable that Anthony would be overshadowed. Canaan hoped that Anthony would accept his outcome with poise.

But then, Canaan observed something unexpected.

As Roy's talent was revealed, Maria and Anthony seemed unbothered, even detached from the commotion. They were engrossed in their own conversation, sharing whispers and smiles.

Anthony spoke earnestly while Maria listened with increasing interest, her smile widening as they continued their private exchange.

Maria and Anthony chatted in low voices so that no third party could hear what they were saying. It was like the previous discreet discussion between Roy and Mr. Barnes.

“The person who poisoned my grandfather was finally identified. It's a woman from Ibaeni called Joelle. Those masterminds behind her had been found out. It turns out she has ties with Octavian's faction in the Empire. Jack is already after her. We will capture her soon,"

Anthony remarked.

He took a short pause and then added, "Octavian even brought a woman from Highwyn whom he fully trusts to here. I'm talking about Lilliana whom you handled at the Pill Alchemist Association. It's only a matter of time before we get our hands on Joelle. Then, she will pay for what she did. Octavian will be alone and vulnerable once all his men are captured.

Maria listened patiently to Anthony. When he finished speaking, she nodded slightly and praised him, "You worked hard to achieve such results. You are incredible."

"You know I had so much to deal with, and despite that, you still saw fit to go on a blind date with that guy to make me jealous!"

Anthony retorted. Although his words sounded reproachful, his tone was very gentle.

Smiling playfully, Maria pouted and quickly said, “Do not change the subject. We're discussing important matters."

Anthony shrugged and said casually, "You know, due to our proximity right now, I could kiss your face at any time, and no one around us would believe that we were discussing important matters."

"No! No kissing!" Maria quickly whispered with a red face.

"Alright. Let's take care of these important matters first and then it will be time for kisses," Anthony said with a playful grin.

Then, Anthony's expression suddenly became serious and he said, “Octavian attacked my grandpa first, which indicates that he likely prioritizes attacking the Wilson family. This can be explained by the fact that under my Leadership, the Wilson family has seen its status grow more recently, which Octavian cannot stomach."

Maria thought of something and remarked, "Perhaps he has begun to suspect your true identity and your involvement with Heaven."

Anthony thought and nodded.

“It could be. After all, we are both professional hackers from Heaven. While you appear to be an ordinary person, I have administrative responsibilities, which put me in the limelight. With all the resources Octavian has at his disposal, he could have this suspicion after investigating me."

"Hey!" Roy's impatient voice suddenly rang out.

The whole reason Roy came here today was to see Maria. He was very excited when he saw Maria and waited for her to finish chatting with Anthony. But Anthony didn't feel like stopping talking just yet, which made Roy lose patience.

“Why are you two chatting here for so long when you would break up soon?" Roy shouted.

Roy was convinced he would marry Maria since Mr. Barnes was helping him.

Since Maria would soon be his woman, Roy didn't want Anthony to be close to her.